Pronunciation Guide: ah-DAP-an-os (rhymes with ‘canvas’)

Basic Definition

Strong’s G77: ἀδάπανος describes something offered without cost, expense, or financial burden to others. It specifically refers to serving or providing something without requiring payment or compensation from the recipients.

Etymology and Morphology

• Part of Speech: Adjective
• Root Words: Compound of ἀ- (negative prefix) + δαπάνη (expense, cost)
• Primary Usage: Letters/Epistles, Teaching
• Language Origin: Classical Greek
• Compound Formation: Early Hellenistic Period

Word Morphology:

• ἀδάπανος (nominative singular) – without expense
• ἀδάπανον (accusative singular) – without expense
• ἀδαπάνῳ (dative singular) – without expense

Word Origin & History

The term ἀδάπανος emerges from classical Greek economic and social contexts, where it described activities or services provided without financial burden to the recipient. In Xenophon’s “Memorabilia,” the concept appears in discussions about friendship and civic duty, where true service was sometimes measured by its freedom from monetary expectations.

The compound structure reveals deep cultural values about generosity and service in ancient Greek society. The negative prefix ἀ- combined with δαπάνη (expense) creates a powerful descriptor for selfless provision that deliberately avoids becoming a financial burden to others.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• Without cost to others
• Free from financial burden
• Involving no expense to the recipient
• Freely given service

Translation Options:

1. “Without charge” – Emphasizes the complete absence of financial cost
2. “Free of expense” – Highlights the deliberate choice to avoid being burdensome
3. “Without financial burden” – Captures the pastoral sensitivity behind the concept

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, ἀδάπανος appears most notably in 1 Corinthians 9:18, where Paul describes his philosophy of ministry. The apostle takes pride in presenting the gospel ἀδάπανον (without charge), deliberately choosing to support himself rather than exercise his right to receive financial support from the churches.

This concept connects powerfully with Paul’s broader teaching about ministry integrity and self-sacrificial service. It demonstrates his commitment to remove any potential obstacle to the gospel’s reception.

Key Biblical References:

• “What then is my reward? That, when I preach the gospel, I may offer it [ἀδάπανον] without charge” 1 Corinthians 9:18
• Connected theme: “I have coveted no one’s silver or gold” Acts 20:33
• Related principle: “Freely you received, freely give” Matthew 10:8

Cultural Insights

In the Greco-Roman world, philosophers and teachers typically charged fees for their instruction. The concept of ἀδάπανος service would have been particularly striking in this context. Paul’s choice to offer his teaching without charge distinguished the gospel message from the commercial sophia (wisdom) of traveling philosophers and highlighted the grace-based nature of the gospel.

The cultural weight of this term would have resonated deeply with the Corinthian church, where social status and financial obligations were significant aspects of daily life. Paul’s use of ἀδάπανος demonstrated a counter-cultural approach that emphasized the unconditional nature of God’s grace.

Theological Significance

The concept of ἀδάπανος ministry reflects the very heart of the gospel – grace freely given. Just as salvation cannot be purchased or earned, Paul demonstrates that true gospel ministry should reflect this same principle of unmerited, freely-offered grace.

This word beautifully illustrates how God’s servants are called to mirror His character. The Lord Jesus taught that we should freely give as we have freely received, and ἀδάπανος ministry embodies this principle in practical application.

Personal Application

When we grasp the significance of ἀδάπανος service, it challenges us to examine our own motivations in ministry and service. Are we serving with strings attached? Do we have hidden expectations of return or recognition?

This word calls us to embrace the freedom and joy of serving others without burden or obligation, reflecting the generous heart of our Father who gave His Son freely for our salvation.

Related Words

• δωρεάν (dōrean) [do-reh-AN] – freely, as a gift, gratis. See G1432
• χάρισμα (charisma) [KHAR-is-mah] – gift of grace, freely given. See G5486
• μισθός (misthos) [mis-THOS] – wages, reward (contrasting concept). See G3408

Did you Know?

• ἀδάπανος appears in ancient Greek business documents describing services provided pro bono, showing its practical application in everyday commercial life.
• The principle behind ἀδάπανος ministry influenced early church practices, where many leaders followed Paul’s example of supporting themselves through trades while serving in ministry.
• Modern Greek still uses derivatives of this word in legal and charitable contexts to describe services provided without charge.

Remember This

ἀδάπανος ministry reflects the heart of God’s grace – freely received, freely given, without price or burden to those who receive it.